The final chapter in an extraordinary era has closed. John ‘Paddy’ Hemingway, the last surviving pilot of the Battle of Britain, has passed away at the remarkable age of 105.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) confirmed that Hemingway, one of ‘The Few’ who courageously took to the skies to defend Britain during the Second World War, died peacefully on Monday.
A Hero Who Never Called Himself One
Hemingway’s role in the war was nothing short of legendary. As German Luftwaffe bombers rained destruction upon Britain from July to September 1940, following the fall of France, Hemingway and his fellow pilots fought back with unwavering resolve. His squadron alone managed to shoot down 90 enemy aircraft in just 11 days during May 1940—an astonishing feat that underscored the RAF’s relentless defence of the nation.
Yet, despite his heroics, Hemingway never considered himself a hero. Instead, he humbly referred to himself as “the lucky Irishman,” a man who simply did his job, just like so many others of his generation. He often spoke of the camaraderie, the laughter, and the friendships forged in the heat of war, many of whom never made it home.
Tributes to a Legend
Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the tributes, honouring Hemingway’s service and sacrifice. “Eighty years ago, the courage and determination of Paddy and all our brave RAF pilots helped bring an end to the Second World War,” he said. “They fearlessly flew over enemy territory to protect the UK and its allies, risking their lives. Their sense of duty and service secured our freedom, and we shall never forget them.”
Defence Secretary John Healey echoed these sentiments, noting that Hemingway’s generation “understood the importance of freedom and sacrificed so much to achieve it.”
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, the Chief of the Air Staff, described Hemingway as “an amazing character whose life story embodies all that was and remains great about the Royal Air Force.”
The Last of ‘The Few’
With Hemingway’s passing, a generation of airborne warriors who turned the tide of war fades into history. He was the final living member of ‘The Few’ after the passing of fellow veteran Terry Clark in May 2020 at the age of 101. Clark had served as a radar operator on Bristol Beaufighters, playing a crucial role in the RAF’s operations during the war.
Hemingway retired from the RAF in 1974, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and selflessness that continues to inspire generations. His story, and the story of those who stood beside him in Britain’s darkest hour, will never be forgotten.
